Jackson, Mich. (WKHM) — Jackson District Library’s Local History Librarian Nathaniel Arndts was recently awarded
the Community Impact Award from the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society for his efforts in preserving and celebrating Jackson County history (pictured below from JTV).
The historical society hosted its 5th Annual County History Banquet at the Ella Sharp Museum in Jackson on November 13.
The banquet honorees included Kent and Angie Tyler, Phil Willis, and Arndts, who won the Historical Rehabilitation Award, the Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Community Impact Award, respectively.
“I’m deeply grateful to the Jackson County Michigan Historical Society for recognizing the library’s efforts as well as my own” Arndts said. “I feel that public library archives are uniquely positioned to foster greater interest in history and preservation to the public they serve. My primary goal is to expand public access to the library’s local history materials. My position exists to guarantee that our community has easy access to its history.”
Arndts has made extensive efforts to archive the district’s historical archives and artifacts since he was hired in November 2023. He often partners with local history authors for library book talks and fulfills research requests about county history from interested parties across the United States.
In addition to seminars and talks, Arndts hopes to have a growing list of projects that volunteers can assist the library with and foster a sense of community and responsibility among the public, encouraging them to contribute to preserving local history.
The Jackson County Michigan Historical Society was founded in 2020 as a not-for-profit, private educational organization dedicated to perpetuating Jackson County’s history.
The Jackson District Library traces its roots to the mid-19th century, and in 2026 will celebrate its 140th anniversary as a free, public library.
